Rich, velvety, and deeply savory, this Easy Turkey Gravy is the finishing touch your Thanksgiving table deserves. Made from pan drippings and a few pantry staples, it transforms your roasted turkey into a full feast. Whether you’re hosting the holiday or bringing a side dish to share, this foolproof gravy brings flavor and comfort in every pour.

What makes this gravy shine is its balance of simplicity and taste. It doesn’t require complicated steps or fancy ingredients. Instead, it lets the roasted turkey’s essence shine through while adding just the right thickened, herby finish to complement every bite of stuffing, mashed potatoes, and those golden pieces of turkey.
What Kind of Turkey Drippings Should I Use?
Fresh pan drippings are ideal for the richest flavor. After roasting your turkey, skim the fat and reserve the dark, flavorful juices at the bottom of the pan. If you don’t have enough drippings, supplement with turkey or chicken stock to build up the base.
Ingredients for the Easy Turkey Gravy
- Turkey drippings: This is the foundation of the gravy, providing deep, roasted flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps control saltiness.
- All-purpose flour: Used to make a roux, thickening the gravy to a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Turkey or chicken broth: Boosts volume and ensures consistent flavor when drippings are limited.
- Fresh thyme or sage (optional): Adds a lovely aromatic note.
- Salt and black pepper: For seasoning and balance.
How To Make the Easy Turkey Gravy
Step 1: Make the Roux
In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until a golden paste forms. Stir constantly for about 2-3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Step 2: Add the Drippings and Broth
Slowly whisk in the turkey drippings and broth, making sure to pour gradually and whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
Step 3: Simmer and Season
Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened to your desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh thyme or sage for an herbal finish.
Step 4: Strain (Optional)
For a silky smooth texture, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve before serving.

Storing and Serving Easy Turkey Gravy
Serve this gravy warm straight from a gravy boat or small saucepan. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking until smooth.
What to Serve With Easy Turkey Gravy?
Mashed Potatoes
Nothing pairs more naturally with turkey gravy than a generous scoop of buttery mashed potatoes.
Herb-Roasted Turkey
It’s a classic for a reason—gravy brings that golden-crusted bird to juicy life.
Stuffing or Dressing
Pour it over a hearty bread stuffing and watch it soak in every herby note.
Green Bean Casserole
Balance the creamy and crunchy textures with a drizzle of warm gravy.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Biscuits and gravy aren’t just for breakfast.
Roasted Vegetables
A savory blanket for sweet carrots, crispy Brussels sprouts, or squash.
Turkey Sandwiches
Use leftover gravy to moisten your post-Thanksgiving sandwiches.
Want More Sauce and Side Ideas?
If this Easy Turkey Gravy has you reaching for more comfort food staples, you might want to try:
- Crispy Buttery Chicken Fried Chicken with Country Gravy
- Dads Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Roasted Parmesan Potatoes and Broccoli
- French Onion Casserole
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so it’s easy to find next time you’re prepping a feast.
Did you go herbaceous with thyme or keep it classic? Let us know how you made this Easy Turkey Gravy your own. Questions and variations welcome!
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Easy Turkey Gravy
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
Take your holiday spread to the next level with this Easy Turkey Gravy—smooth, rich, and loaded with roasted flavor. Perfectly thickened and seasoned, it brings warmth and comfort to every bite, whether poured over turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or even sandwiches. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients like turkey drippings, broth, and flour to create a savory sauce in under 15 minutes. Ideal for festive dinners, weeknight meals, or whenever you’re craving a quick, comforting homemade gravy. Great for quick dinner ideas, classic comfort food, and beginner-friendly cooking.
Ingredients
2 cups turkey drippings or broth
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup turkey or chicken broth (if needed)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or sage (optional)
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour to form a golden roux; cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Slowly pour in turkey drippings and broth, whisking constantly.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and stir until thickened, 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
6. Strain through a fine mesh sieve if a smoother texture is desired.
Notes
For richer flavor, use a mix of dark and light drippings.
Reheat slowly and whisk in extra broth to refresh leftovers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
